Proverbs 2:5

The book of Proverbs gives us insights into so many different areas of life. The book gives us instruction on how to live our lives for God. Here is a proverb that gives us insight about the fear of the LORD:

Proverbs 2:5 (ESV)

then you will understand the fear of the LORD

and find the knowledge of God.

The "then" in 2:5 refers to what happens when you search for wisdom as though you were searching for gold. Before we discuss what that search does we need to remember that wisdom is not for sale. You don't get it by searching for it as though it were some physical item to be discovered like a lotto ticket. Wisdom is a gift from God and can only be gotten by faith. Note:

Proverbs 2:6 (ESV)

For the LORD gives wisdom;

from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;

If you receive the gift from God by faith you will receive discernment ... a commodity that can't be compared to anything earthly. Searching for God's wisdom, via faith, we receive discernment and discover knowledge about God. We need faith to receive the wisdom and the wisdom to get the discernment. It all begins with faith.  Many try to purchase wisdom.   However, you can't buy wisdom with a degree from a university.  Note Solomon's words, here:

Proverbs 17:16

Why is there a price in the hand of a fool to buy wisdom,

When he has no sense?

You can't buy it.   You can’t manufacture it, either.  Wisdom is not something you create in your own mind.  The Fear of God is the beginning of Wisdom so you can’t create it in your self.   Yes, ungodly men and women come up with great truths about mathematics and medicine and technology.   However, that knowledge came from the common grace of God He gives to all.   You can't get discernment through your efforts for wisdom.  It is a by-product of a life of faith that gives wisdom.  Wisdom then gives discernment.